05 fatboy with a 42mm mikuni carb.
without motor running I turn fuel petcock on and fuel imedeity with steady flow out of overflow tube.
any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated

 

Float might be stuck.
m

 

There is probably a bit of debris between the needle and seat, preventing the needle from closing against the seat.

Remove the float bowl, and give the needle and seat area a shot of spray carb cleaner.

Consider replacing the fuel lines, they may be getting old and deteriorated.

 

They are 15 years old, that might be a good idea .thanks

 

Float level high,
float sunk,
needle seat FOD or worn out.